Overview
A sulfur-bath classic in Old Tbilisi
Chreli Abano (the “Colorful Bath”) is one of the best-known bathhouses in Abanotubani, the historic sulfur-bath district at the foot of Narikala. This is not an outdoor hot spring, it’s an indoor, tiled bath experience built around naturally warm, sulfur-rich water that surfaces in the old town.
The venue runs bookable rooms (usually private, sized by group), with hot sulfur pools and, in some rooms, a cold plunge and sauna. The practical upside is control: you get a set time slot, showers, a place to change, and staff who run the room like a service, not a free-for-all.
What it feels like
Expect a strong mineral smell, warm water that can feel hotter than you think once you settle in, and slick tile underfoot. Most visitors pair the soak with a scrub or massage, then head back into the city clean, slightly pink, and ready for dinner in the old town.
Location & Access
Where it is
Chreli Abano is at N2 Abano St., Tbilisi, Georgia, in the Abanotubani bath district, a short walk from the old town sights around the river and Narikala.
By car and on foot
This is an urban, drive-up visit. Taxis can drop you close, but streets in the old town can be tight and busy. Walking is often easiest if you’re already staying in central Tbilisi. Expect steps and wet surfaces inside.
Hours and reservations
The bathhouse lists daily operating hours, and reservations are the norm for private rooms. Even if you plan to walk in, have a backup time in mind for evenings and weekends, when the district gets crowded.
What to bring
Bring flip-flops for tile floors, a swimsuit if you prefer coverage in a private room, and water to drink after your soak. If you’re booking treatments, arrive a bit early so you’re not rushing through the scrub and shower cycle.
Suitability & Accessibility
Chreli Abano works best for travelers who want a controlled, indoors hot-spring-style soak without leaving the city. It’s a strong pick for couples, small groups, and anyone who wants the Abanotubani experience in a tidy, renovated setting rather than a rougher local bath.
Families
Families can make it work by booking a private room and keeping sessions short. The main challenge is heat tolerance and slippery tile, not distance. For very young kids, this can feel like a lot, warm water plus steam plus enclosed space.
Mobility and accessibility
Plan for stairs, tight corridors, and wet floors. This is not a smooth, step-free facility, and wheelchair access is limited in practice. If you need extra time changing or moving, book a longer slot so you’re not pressured.
Expectations vs reality
Don’t expect a big social pool or a resort day pass vibe. You’re booking time in a room with a bath, then leaving. The sulfur smell lingers, and some people find their skin feels dry afterward, so moisturizer is worth packing.
Safety & Etiquette
Heat management
Test the water before you fully settle in, especially if you’re sensitive to heat. Keep soaks short, take cool-down breaks, and drink water after. If you feel lightheaded, get out and sit down, staff are used to it.
Slip hazards
Tile plus water equals slick. Wear sandals, walk slowly, and keep phones off wet ledges. Treat steps and thresholds as the sketchiest parts of the visit.
Who should be cautious
The venue itself notes that sulfur baths are not recommended for pregnant guests and for people with blood pressure or heart problems. If any of that applies to you, treat this like a real heat exposure and get personal medical advice first.
Etiquette
Shower before entering the pool, keep voices low, and respect privacy. Ask staff before taking photos in shared areas. If you book a private room, leave it tidy, staff turn rooms fast and you’ll notice when a guest didn’t.
FAQs
Do I need to book in advance?
For private rooms, yes, booking ahead is the safest plan, especially on evenings and weekends. Walk-ins can work, but you may wait for an open slot.
What should I wear?
In a private room, many visitors use swimwear, while others go without. If you have a preference, bring a swimsuit and decide on the spot. In shared spaces, follow staff direction.
Is it mixed gender?
Private rooms are used by your booking group. Any shared or reception areas are mixed, but the bathing itself depends on the room type you reserve.
How long should I plan for?
Plan around your booked time slot plus a buffer for check-in, changing, and post-soak showering. If you add a scrub or massage, allow extra time.
Who should skip sulfur baths?
The bathhouse advises against sulfur bathing for pregnancy and for certain heart or blood pressure issues. If you’re unsure, get personal medical guidance before you go.